GE Aviation Systems in Vandalia, OH received a maximum $5.1 million firm-fixed-price, sole-source contract to supply aviation ground power unit (AGPU) generators for U.S. Army helicopters. The award is for new generators to replace original units with more power capability and longer life characteristics, according to GE Aviation.
There was originally 1 proposal solicited for the contract with 1 response. The date of performance completion is July 31/13. The Defense Logistics Agency (DSCR-AHB) at Redstone Arsenal, AL manages the contract (SPRRA1-09-D-0016).
The GE Aviation’s AGH828-2 generator is part of a complete electrical system for the AGPU, which is an integrated ground support equipment system for the Army’s UH-60 Black Hawk, AH-64D Apache, and CH-47 Chinook helicopters. The unit is also used to service the USAF’s F-16.
Each AGPU provides hydraulic, electrical, pneumatic and conditioned air, is self-sufficient (turbine engine on-board) and self-powered, all in one unit. The Army started exploring upgrades to the unit in the late 1990s, with GE supporting studies and initial production vehicles for proof-of-concept demonstrations and early field trials, according to GE Aviation. As a result of those trials, the Army decided to upgrade the 600 plus AGPUs in service. GE has been producing these upgraded units for the past 7-8 years. This contract is a follow-on to the previous work.